Transforming Classrooms with Play-based Learning
In the second episode of the season, host Nancy Chung sits down with two subject matter experts from School Specialty: Kathy Descamps, an expert in physical education, health, and wellness, and returning guest Jennifer Fernandez in early childhood.
Nancy talks to Kathy and Jennifer about the power of play-based learning and its impact on student engagement, social skills, and cognitive development across all age groups.
The episode showcases the various forms of play-based learning, from exploratory play to structured games. Play-based learning is presented not just as a teaching strategy but as a fundamental approach to actively engaging students in making sense of the world around them.
They talk about how play is critical in nurturing skills for children’s future success. Jennifer quotes Fred Rogers, who observed, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”
The discussion also explores the evolution of play-based learning from early childhood through high school. Kathy and Jennifer highlight how structured recess and physical activities foster healthy habits and enrich social interactions.
Listeners receive practical advice on how to weave play-based strategies into classrooms, regardless of grade level. Our expert guests share creative examples of play activities, emphasizing the benefits of peer teaching and inclusion.
Play is a way to support children’s healthy development and create positive movement opportunities that can have a lasting impact on their physical activity levels into adolescence and adulthood.
Kathy Descamps
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Jennifer Fernandez
Jennifer has over 30 years of experience in education. She has a BA in Elementary Education & Spanish and a Master’s in Bilingual Education. She has taught PreK4-2nd grade in general & bilingual/dual language settings in Texas, Minnesota, and Mexico City. Jennifer was a professional learning specialist for PreK4SA in San Antonio for seven years. She is currently the national Subject Matter Expert for Early Childhood at School Specialty, where she supports sales, marketing, and merchandising in the early childhood category. She also provides professional development and presents at state and national early childhood conferences nationwide.
Kathy Descamps
Kathy has 30 years of experience working with school systems and community partners to improve child health through physical activity and nutrition education initiatives. She specializes in physical education product development and funding strategies for child health and wellness programming. She has also provided professional development to thousands of physical activity trainees throughout the US and internationally. Kathy is the Subject Matter Expert for Physical Education, Health, and Wellness at School Specialty.